Needing surgery, even when it is planned, can make life complicated. In addition to the procedure, you may need an extended time to heal before you can resume your normal life.
In some cases, surgery does not go as planned, and the doctor makes a mistake. Although some surgeons will be upfront about an error, others either do not know or hope you will not find out they made a mistake.
These are some of the signs that there was a mistake in the operating room.
Difficulty breathing
Without anesthesia, surgery would not be possible. However, it is also a medication that can have devastating side effects if the timing or dosages are incorrect.
As you recover from surgery, pay attention to your ability to breathe. While your body may need time to get back to normal after anesthesia, breathing is something that should come back relatively quickly. If you are having trouble breathing, you should consult with your medical team right away.
Unusual surgical site
During the initial surgical consultation and after your surgery, your medical team should describe the recovery process, including the surgical site. The site should follow a typical pattern for recovery.
Although some symptoms, like itchiness and sensitivity, may be expected, there are times when these symptoms could mean that there was an error during your surgery.
Seeking help
When you suspect something went wrong during your surgery, it is essential to seek medical help right away. A symptom that seems like an inconvenience today could escalate if left unattended.
If you have a suspicion that something is wrong, but your medical team dismisses your concern, you should seek out a second opinion.